Hidden Gems: Shopping

By Mikela Floyd and Sam Sumpter

Published: July 28, 2014

Photography by Leah Overstreet

Charm School Vintage

Effervescent owner Shari Gerstenberger opened this vintage store in a former art gallery, which she currently shares with a wig shop and salon, in 2010, and stocks it with what she calls “clothes with a story.” Her highly curated collection runs the gamut from jean jackets and concert T-shirts to filmy negligees in candy-colored hues. It’s a treasure trove of fun apparel that’s nothing short of, well, charming. 2109 E.Cesar Chavez St., (512) 344-9173, charmschoolvintage.com

Gusto Studios

Established in November 2012, Gusto Studios is the brainchild of two local artists looking for a way to both showcase their works and give back to the community. Greg Davis, a National Geographic Creative photographer, and William K. Stidham, a renowned watercolorist with a penchant for rock ‘n’ roll, host nearly quarterly gallery events at their South Austin location, featuring local musicians and benefiting a local nonprofit, such as H.O.P.E. studios. It’s best to call ahead for availability and viewing, because when this duo isn’t in-house, they’re on the road sharing their passion with the world.2309 Thornton Road, Ste. M, (512) 228-0995, facebook.com/gustostudios

South Austin Gallery

When husband and wife Joseph and Jennifer Worth were looking to expand their photography business, they found their niche in a South Austin shopping center. Opened in 2010, this bright-blue store offers low-cost custom framing with a side of Austin kitsch. The store sources its frames from nearby estate sales, thrift stores and more, so don’t expect your typical black frame job. You take what they’ve got in this deal, but the good news is, they’ve got great taste. Also include this in your holiday shopping arsenal, as the walls are lined with Austin-themed coasters, trivets and cutting boards featuring The Worths’ photos.507A W. Mary St., (512) 680-4018, southaustingallery.com

New BROhemia

Think of this outfitter, just to the right of South First Street’s “Slackerville City Limit” sign, as the laid-back brother of its sister store, New Bohemia. Once inside, you’ll bask in a rainbow of pearl snaps, leisurewear and even vintage postcards. If denim’s your pick, the store aims to please with dungarees, vests and more. Shopping for the pint-size fellow in your life? Check out the well-stocked kids’ section, complete with Garanimals and vintage tiny Ts.2209 S. First St., (512) 804-0988

Busy-Being

While the corner of Fifth and Comal streets is generally associated with hipster honky-tonk The White Horse, this retail business is also worth noting. Kitty-corner to the saloon, Busy-Being is an imported and handmade haven, which shares its space with like-minded boutique Solid Gold. Outfit your home with handmade bowls, one-of-a-kind Mexican blankets and hand-dyed fabrics raised, sheared and dyed by the artists. And treat yourself to a unique artisanal bauble or two. Store owner Amber Abramson always sources jewelry from artists directly.1601 E. Fifth St., Ste. 102, (323) 428-7576, busy-being.com

GW by Goodwill

At one point or another, chances are that everyone operates on a shoestring budget. But thanks to this tucked-away Westlake spot, you don’t have to look like it. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill thrift store; items are handpicked and range from designer shoes to best-selling hardcover books. The real star is the denim selection, which features brand names Seven for All Mankind, Citizens of Humanity and more for $10 and up. Which means you won’t feel guilty about buying a few pairs.2814 Bee Cave Road, Ste. C, (512) 329-8771, goodwillcentraltexas.org

The Boutique on Stonelake

Unexpectedly located inside Lexus of Austin, this unique boutique is the brainchild of dealership owner Vicki Roberts Howard. Opened in 2011, the shop offers a variety of goods from both Austin and abroad, including ties in whimsical prints, jewelry, stationery and kitchen goods. 9910 Stonelake Blvd., (512) 343-3436, theboutiqueonstonelake.com

JM DryGoods

The eclectic items for sale at JM Drygoods could best be described as things you never knew you wanted but, upon seeing them, suddenly need. Michelle Teague originally started this shop in Marfa, and her Austin store, connected to Spartan, offers a special selection of artisanal goods, particularly those discovered on trips to Oaxaca, Mexico. Think beaded skulls, funky jewelry, embroidered tunics and fat sticks of fragrant incense now available, thankfully, north of the border.215 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. C, (512) 579-0303, jmdrygoods.com

The Bus Stop Shop

This Etsy store turned brick-and-mortar and, well, bus last December, when owner Cristina Nieto took up residency in a space shared with consignment shop Second Time Around. Inside, you’ll find a selection of both vintage and handmade clothes and accessories—all with the shop’s signature Southern flair and touch of honky-tonk. Outside, you can climb aboard the school bus and browse shelves lined with vintage boots, no bus pass required.5100 Burnet Road, (512) 789-6577, thebusstopshop.com